The BLM’s new wind and solar leasing rule will guide clean energy projects to low-conflict, pre-screened areas to increase renewable energy on public lands, helping reduce greenhouse gases and the impacts of climate change.

Full of pastoral valleys, high mountain peaks and rugged canyons, the Uncompahgre region includes the idyllic vineyard and farm-rich lands of the North Fork Valley, nestled on the western side of the Rocky Mountains, between Grand Junction and Montrose.

Americans could face $150 billion in climate change-related damages due to the burning of coal if the federal coal leasing program is not reformed immediately, according to the new Wilderness Society report.

Known as the Desert Renewable Energy Conservation Plan, the Obama administration’s proposal will protect 4.2 million acres of wild and vulnerable public land while setting aside specific areas for clean energy development.